This is a full-out safari with a civilized twist. Are you game? Then get ready! Set your sights on a particular prize (or several, there's no limit and no license required). Stalk the perfect painting for over the sofa or try to bag the ultimate trophy—a birthday gift for your picky Aunt Peg! (Safari hats are optional, but we really think they would be fun.) And the hunt is on.

May we suggest an elegant meal to offset the excitement of the chase? Consider The Front Porch or Cafe' des Artistes (in Leonardtown). If the perfect handmade jewelry, painting or pottery has proven elusive, don't worry; there are still more studios yet to explore.

For the eastern leg of the safari, you'll make your base camp in Solomons at Solomons Victorian Inn or the Blue Heron Inn. Choose from the following studios: Linda Wharton's Studio and Gerry Wood's Wood Windfall Studio (both just across the Solomons bridge), Vista Bay Studio (Ann Crain), and Studio 56 (Joan McGill Kocen). Venture a bit farther north to MadeWithClay (Ray Bogle) and Turtlepoint Driftwood Sculptures (Larry Ringgold).You'll need to call ahead to visit most of these private studios, but many can accommodate you with minimal notice (and you usually won't need a passport, a visa or inoculations of any kind).